I want to get a breast lift and tummy tuck, will I be at risk for blood clots?
A freind of mine had a hip replacement and later died from a blood clot, I want to know if blood clots are common after surgeries or something associated with each individuals overall health?
The risk of getting a blood clot in the leg is elevated after many kinds of surgery, especially those that require the patient to be inactive or bed-ridden. The risk is particularly high after hip replacement surgery. Doctors know this. That is why a regimen of blood thinners frequently is used for several days or weeks after the surgery. This regimen might include blood-thinning drugs (such as coumadin/warfarin), devices such as wearing TED stockings or wearing an inflatable device on the lower legs, and exercises that keep the blood flowing.
After my hip replacements I was instructed to use all three of these methods. I took warfarin for 5 weeks, wore TEDS for the same length of time, and did an exercise called “ankle pumps” several times a day.
As for the specific surgeries that you are asking about, I recommend that you direct those questions to the surgeon who is going to perform them. Tell him/her about your fear.